Downhill Playmakers from the 2023 Class

Throughout the first week we have seen some incredible performances among senior guards. Whether eye opening statistical performances or high IQ decisions, these were a few names who have made key impacts as playmakers around the rim.   [player_tooltip player_id='1420173' first='Daundre' last='Samuels'] reminds us of his two-way dominance   <figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2022/04/IMG-4123-rotated-e1649893926180.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2022/04/IMG-4123-rotated-e1649893926180-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1428930" width="244" height="162"/></a></figure>   Currently sitting at 13th within the 2023 class, Samuels was simply dominant on both ends thorughout this match. The 6'3 guard was unstoppable driving downhill, proving too quick to stop. Samuels got to the rim on his own accord while driving either direction, staying physical drawing fouls. The senior guard yet again proved to us his excellent defensive skillset, a difficult opponent to get by one on one. Within the fullcourt, Samuels had an eye opening transition block above the rim.   [player_tooltip player_id='1577977' first='David' last='Hageman'] repeatedly leading Windsor   The senior guard has shown all around scoring ability, notably going to the jumper to a higher volume. Hageman is a strong bodied guard at 6'3, most effective getting downhill with the help of a screen. He has shown dependability getting to the rim with either hand, although Hageman has especially good touch going right. One area of intrigue resides in his shooting volume, already buying into a much heavier dosage. For context, Hageman attempted 112 three pointers last season through 24 games, however through his first three games he has already taken 31 and contributing 29% of those attempts. Given his 13 of 13 record from the line this season, expect Hageman to be a dependable shooter throughout the season. Once the guard captures a 35%+ rate from beyond the arc, the driving lanes will open up and so will his assist numbers.   [player_tooltip player_id='973001' first='Sam' last='Scott'] Creating Easy Looks   <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2021/06/DSC_0678.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2021/06/DSC_0678-1024x685.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1210971" width="234" height="156"/></a></figure>   Scott will be a key name at East, making the leap up to varsity this year. While not posting absurd numbers, do not be fooled by the stats. East has only contributed 27% of their three point attempts, which will rise back to the mean in time. From matches against Windsor and Poudre, Scott created over a dozen wide open or slightly contested shot attempts behind the arc. What stands out with the point guard has been his dependability getting into the jaws of the defense going either direction. Another key facet of his playmaking resides in his patient pace of play, rarely rushing drives while carefully surveying opposing rotations to find the open teammate.   [player_tooltip player_id='969435' first='Nathaniel' last='Owen'] Steady as Always   <figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2022/07/Nathaniel-Owen2.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2022/07/Nathaniel-Owen2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1504398" width="255" height="170"/></a></figure>   Owen has opened the season on a tear, thanks to his progression as a ballhandler and fluidity scoring around the rim. The senior guard out of Belleview Christian has kicked off the season with 25.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks a game. Owen has continued to build upon his ballhandling confidence and finishing through contact around the rim. Although playing at the 1A level, Owen is someone for colleges to keep an eye on as a 6'5 playmaker.   [player_tooltip player_id='1151703' first='Radek' last='Homer'] Playing Big   <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/user-uploads/101-Radek-Homer-e1663541817922-800x525-1.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/user-uploads/101-Radek-Homer-e1663541817922-800x525-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1600428" width="241" height="158"/></a></figure>   Homer deserves a mention here given his physicality in the paint and ability to always impact the game. The other day versus Rock Canyon, Homer grabbed 14 rebounds against a disciplined group. The lefty has been consistent getting to rim with either hand and elevating above the defense for attempts around the rim. Homer is an especially unique guard given his ability to impact winning basketball without without taking a shot.

Throughout the first week we have seen some incredible performances among senior guards. Whether eye opening statistical performances or high IQ decisions, these were a few names who have made key impacts as playmakers around the rim.